A Shift Toward Balance Creates Opportunities for Buyers and Strategic Advantages for Sellers

Scotch Plains has long been a top destination for Union County homebuyers, thanks to its strong schools, suburban charm, and convenient location. But like much of the region, the Scotch Plains real estate market is experiencing a noticeable shift in June 2025. While homes continue to sell at solid prices, the pace and tone of the market have changed, offering both new challenges and fresh opportunities for buyers and sellers.

A More Patient Market: Inventory on the Rise

The months’ supply of inventory in Scotch Plains rose to 3.1 months in June, a clear sign that more homes are hitting the market and that buyers are taking longer to make decisions. Gone are the days of frantic bidding wars and 24-hour offer deadlines. Today’s buyers are more methodical, evaluating their options, negotiating on price, and requesting inspections and repairs with greater frequency.

This increase in inventory means that while demand remains steady, supply is catching up, bringing us closer to a balanced market. Homes aren’t selling overnight, but well-prepared listings are still attracting serious attention.

Price Consciousness Is Key

Homes in Scotch Plains, especially those in the $600,000–$900,000 price range, continue to see strong buyer interest. However, pricing is more important than ever. Buyers are more sensitive to value; they’re comparing homes carefully and steering away from properties that are overpriced or in need of major updates.

That means homes that are turnkey, well-maintained, and priced competitively are the ones that stand out. Sellers can no longer expect premium offers just because inventory is low, they need to meet the market where it is.

Strategic Selling Wins

For sellers, this is a time to lean into strategy over assumptions. While Scotch Plains remains a desirable market, sellers need to take a proactive approach:

• Professional marketing, including high-quality photography, virtual tours, floor plans and social media outreach, can make a big impact.
• Pricing the home properly from day one ensures it doesn’t linger and develop a stigma.
• Flexibility in negotiations, especially around closing dates or minor repairs, can keep deals moving forward in a more cautious market.

If your home is clean, staged, and market-ready, buyers are out there, but their expectations are more grounded than in previous years.

A Welcome Window for Buyers

On the flip side, buyers now have a genuine opportunity to find the right home without being rushed. With more listings to choose from and fewer bidding wars, buyers can take time to evaluate homes, negotiate better terms, and make confident decisions.

This is a refreshing change for buyers who may have felt priced out or overwhelmed in the ultra-competitive markets of the last several years. And with interest rates steady and inventory on the rise, the summer of 2025 could be the sweet spot.

If you’re planning a move, whether buying, selling, or just exploring your options, I’m here to help you navigate the evolving Scotch Plains market. Let’s talk about how to position your home for success or craft a winning offer in today’s conditions.

Office: 908-664-1500 x564
Cell: 908-917-4189
Email: wayne.zuhl@gmail.com